Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the richness of cheese, savory ground beef, and hearty pasta. This dish is not only satisfying but incredibly easy to make, combining the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a delicious filling of seasoned ground beef and a cheesy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Once baked, the stuffed shells are coated in marinara sauce, resulting in a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

This recipe makes for a great weeknight dinner, special family meal, or even as a dish to bring to gatherings. The gooey melted cheese, tender pasta, and flavorful beef all work together to create a dish that everyone will love. If you’re looking to make your next pasta night extra special, these creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells are sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Delicious Flavor Combination

The savory beef, creamy ricotta, and mozzarella create a rich and comforting filling that’s sure to satisfy.

2. Cheesy and Hearty

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth of flavor to the dish.

3. Make-Ahead Friendly

These stuffed shells can be assembled ahead of time and baked when ready, making it a great option for busy nights or meal prep.

4. Kid-Friendly

The cheesy, pasta-filled shells are a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a perfect family meal.

5. Perfect for Leftovers

This dish tastes just as good (if not better) the next day, making it a great option for leftovers.

Ingredients

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Ground beef
• Ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Garlic
• Dried basil
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Marinara sauce

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a mixture of roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Add Herbs: Experiment with additional herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• Spicy Option: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or marinara sauce to give the dish a little heat.
• Cheese Lovers: Add extra mozzarella or provolone cheese to the stuffing mixture for an extra cheesy filling.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, being careful not to overfill them.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish.

Step 7: Bake the Shells

7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the shells are heated through.

Step 8: Serve

8. Remove from the oven and serve hot with extra marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor of the filling compared to garlic powder.
• Fill the Shells Gently: Be careful not to tear the pasta shells when filling them. If the shells are overstuffed, they may break during baking.
• Use a Baking Dish: Make sure your baking dish is deep enough to accommodate all the shells in a single layer.

How to Serve

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta can be served with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a nice finishing touch. For a more indulgent meal, serve it alongside a rich and creamy soup, such as tomato basil, or a crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the shells in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, simply add 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time. To freeze after baking, allow the shells to cool, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat by baking at 375°F until heated through.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the dish is heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for a quick meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef in this recipe.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells the day before and bake them when ready to serve.

3. Can I use fresh pasta shells?

Fresh pasta shells can be used, but make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

4. How do I prevent the shells from breaking when stuffing them?

Be gentle when stuffing the shells and avoid overfilling them. This will help prevent breakage.

5. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce will add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

6. Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze both the assembled and baked stuffed shells. Just be sure to store them properly and reheat them thoroughly.

7. How do I know when the stuffed shells are fully cooked?

The shells are fully cooked when the cheese inside is melted and bubbly and the sauce is simmering.

8. Can I use other types of cheese?

You can experiment with different cheeses, like ricotta and provolone, for a slightly different flavor profile.

9. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the beef with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant for a vegetarian version.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can be doubled easily to feed a larger crowd. Just ensure you have a large enough baking dish.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy anyone at the table. With layers of flavorful cheese, savory beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, this meal is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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